PUBLISHED 10/13/2006
Asics's design team drew inspiration from a variety of sources to create the Gel-Kinsei.
Metal Work
The shoe's styling is equal parts samurai armor and BMW sports car.
Baked Goods
The forefoot is made out of a lighter foam that has a more uniform consistency--think Wonder as opposed to French bread.
Thin Air
The lightweight material on the shoe's top has its roots in blimp-fabric technology.
Home Furnishings
The exposed Gel in the heel sits in a frame patterned after a Danish-made chair. The Gel is softer on the outside of the shoe, for impact protection, and firmer on the inside, for support.
